Setting expectations

- I've found that, for the most part, people are reasonable.…Projects run pretty well,…as long as I'm clear about what I expect to happen,…how much something will cost, and how long it will take.…When I'm vague or don't communicate,…everyone gets out of sorts.…Without information, clients will decide on their own…when they should see the next round,…how much the printing should cost,…or that 30 more pages on a website…should take 10 minutes to add.…Remember, clients live in client world,…you live in designer world.…

You know how long it takes to design a logo or website,…your client doesn't.…For them, there must be a button you push,…logo design, and it's done.…When you explain in your proposal…that it will take three weeks…to design the first round of the logo options,…he or she has that expectation.…On my proposals, I list how long each phase will take.…I do this with time spans.…For example, it will take three weeks…to do research and strategy,…three weeks to design the logo and present options,…and three weeks to refine one.…

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Released

9/8/2017

Many designers have experienced the frustration of having devised a singular, elegant solution, only to have it rejected by a client. While solid design skills are key to successfully selling your work, understanding how to collaborate with clients can be just as critical. In this course, learn how to win design projects, convince your clients to go with the best solutions, and cultivate lasting working relationships.

Instructor Sean Adams shows how to begin a working relationship with a potential client, explaining how to sell yourself, present previous projects, and set appropriate expectations. He also provides tips for communicating during the design phase, crafting and delivering an impactful presentation, and dealing with a variety of common conflicts. In addition, he discusses how to maintain lasting relationships with clients, create more work, and determine when it's time to part ways with a client.